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Local authorities upskilled to implement the Homelessness Reduction Act

Homeless Link is delivering a suite of training courses as part of the Southwark Training Academy.

The Homelessness Reduction Act 2017 (HRA) came into force on 3 April 2018 and amends Part 7 of the Housing Act 1996. The introduction of the Act means that housing authorities need to change the way they respond to homelessness applications.

There is now more focus on prevention, early intervention and advice for people at risk of, or experiencing homelessness, rather than on an assessment of their circumstances and crisis intervention. This is a more person-centred approach, which amounts to a culture shift in councils’ working practice.

In response, the Southwark Training Academy aims to better equip local authority staff across London to support the effective implementation of the HRA. Homeless Link is one of four partners delivering training as part of the Academy, along with Shelter, Solace Women’s Aid and the Chartered Institute of Housing, and we are pleased to be involved in this important initiative.

Homeless Link has developed a programme of five courses focused on enhancing authorities’ relationships with public and voluntary sector organisations, as well as the interactions that staff have with clients, enabling them to introduce personalised responses to address individuals’ needs. The outcome from the training will be improved support for all people at risk of, or facing homelessness and particularly for those experiencing multiple disadvantage.

Participants will develop their skills specifically around:

effective communication with those seeking support

building partnerships with other organisations

motivational interviewing techniques

Trauma-informed Care

reflective practice and resilience, and supporting the well-being of staff teams

We hope that the knowledge gained through the Training Academy courses will help staff to understand the HRA and result in the culture shift needed to increase capacity and improve services both for vulnerable people and those who support them.

If you are interested in finding out more about the training or how your local authority or organisation can get involved, please contact Laura Millward at laura.millward@homelesslink.org.uk.